UPSC Syllabus 2025, IAS Prelims & Mains Syllabus

UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is India’s most prestigious competitive exam, acting as the road to careers in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and other elite civil services. The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025 is your gateway to prestigious roles like IAS, IPS, IFS, and more. With the UPSC 2025 notification released on January 22, 2025, aspirants must strategize their preparation around the updated UPSC syllabus 2025. You will find everything from the IAS Prelims syllabus and UPSC Mains syllabus to eligibility criteria, exam patterns, and preparation tips.

UPSC Syllabus 2025

The UPSC Exam 2025 is conducted in three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview. While the Prelims serve as a qualifying stage, the scores from the Mains and Interview contribute to the final merit list. Below are the key details of the UPSC 2025 exam:

UPSC 2025 Prelims Syllabus

The UPSC Prelims is the first stage of the examination. It consists of two objective-type papers:

General Studies Paper I (GS)

The General Studies paper evaluates a candidate’s knowledge of:

Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) - Paper II

The CSAT paper tests:

• Comprehension: Analyzing and interpreting passages.

• Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: Problem-solving and critical thinking.

• Quantitative Aptitude: Basic mathematical skills up to the Class X level.

Exam Pattern for Prelims:

Qualifying Criteria is CSAT is qualifying in nature; candidates must secure at least 33% to pass.

Check Out: PW UPSC Previous Year Papers Books

UPSC 2025 Mains Syllabus

Candidates who clear the Prelims are eligible for the Mains examination, which is descriptive in nature. The Mains exam tests candidates’ intellectual depth, analytical skills, and writing ability. It comprises nine papers, of which two are qualifying and seven contribute to the final merit.

Qualifying Papers

• Paper A: Indian Language (300 marks).

• Paper B: English (300 marks).

Merit-Based Papers

Exam Pattern for Mains:

Check Out: UPSC Question Banks Books

Personality Test (Interview)

The final stage of the UPSC Civil Services Examination is the Personality Test, commonly referred to as the Interview. It carries 275 marks and assesses the following attributes:

• Communication Skills: Ability to articulate thoughts clearly and concisely.

• Leadership Qualities: Decision-making, confidence, and emotional stability.

• Analytical Thinking: Approach to problem-solving and understanding of current affairs.

• Personality Traits: Suitability for a career in civil services.

Important Details:

• Total Marks: 2025 (1750 from Mains + 275 from Interview).

• Interview Location: UPSC Headquarters, Dholpur House, New Delhi.

Eligibility Criteria for UPSC 2025

Age Criteria

• General: 21-32 years (as of August 1, 2025).

• Age Relaxation: SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), PwBD (10 years).

Educational Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.

• Final-year students can apply, provided they submit proof of passing before the Mains examination.

Number of Attempts

• General: 6 attempts.

• OBC: 9 attempts.

• SC/ST: Unlimited attempts.

Preparation Strategies for UPSC 2025

1. Start with NCERTs: Build foundational knowledge in history, polity, and geography.

2. Integrate Current Affairs: Follow newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express) and monthly magazines.

3. Practice Answer Writing: Focus on structure, clarity, and conciseness for Mains.

4. Mock Tests: Simulate Prelims conditions to improve speed and accuracy.

5. Optional Subject Mastery: Choose based on interest and overlap with GS topics.

The UPSC Syllabus 2025 is extensive. It is challenging and requires thorough preparation. When you understand the detailed UPSC CSE syllabus it’s easy for aspirants strategize effectively to excel in the exam and secure a prestigious position in civil services. Use right resources, follow a disciplined schedule, and stay committed to your goal to turn your IAS dream into reality.

Also Check, UPSC Textbooks

UPSC 2025 Syllabus FAQs

1. What is the UPSC Civil Services Examination?
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a nationwide competitive exam in India conducted to recruit candidates for prestigious positions such as IAS, IPS, and IFS.

2. What are the stages of the UPSC CSE?
The UPSC CSE is conducted in three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test (Interview).

3. What is the syllabus for UPSC Prelims 2025?
The Prelims syllabus includes General Studies (GS) Paper I and the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) Paper II, covering history, geography, polity, economy, current affairs, and aptitude skills.

4. What is the pattern of the UPSC Mains exam?
The Mains exam includes nine papers: two qualifying language papers, one essay paper, four General Studies papers, and two optional subject papers.